pectoral fins
how they help with directionA shark can change angle of their pectoral fins, changing how the water moves around them. When the fins tilts upwards, the water flows so there is greater pressure below the fin, creating that upward lift. If the fin is tilted downwards, there is greater pressure above the fin, pushing the shark downward.
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how they help with liftForward movement (thanks to the caudal fin) pushes water around the pectoral fins. This movement creates lift! If you think about it, shark pectoral fins work in a similar way to airplane wings.
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how they help with walkingSome sharks, thanks to evolutionary adaptations in their pectoral and pelvic fins, have increased their range of motion and allow for those fins to act as "feet" and aid with walking! They can swim just fine, but are often seen strutting on the ground!
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pelvic finsThey are the pair of fins located on either side of the shark's body along the pectoral muscle. You can see them pointed out in our diagram above. The pectoral fins control the direction the shark swims and help maintain balance, and make turns! #Finfact: For males, their claspers are a cartilaginous extension of their pelvic fins!
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caudal finIf the shark's pectoral fins are like the wings of an airplane, then think of the caudal fin as the propeller! These come in all shapes and sizes depending the lifestyle the shark lives.
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dorsal fin
Not all sharks have one dorsal fin-- some have two! The dorsal fin's main purpose is to help with balance (i.e. stabilize the shark from rolling side to side) and to help in sudden turns. Some sharks have spines on their dorsal fins for added protection!
Anal fin
Depending the species, some sharks have a vertical anal fin near the base of their tail. This fin helps keep the shark's balance as it swims.
#Finfact: The anal fin can be moved to help turn the shark!
#Finfact: The anal fin can be moved to help turn the shark!
